South Africa: Reflecting on the Sunrise Campaign Learning, Sustainability & Transition workshop

Reflection on the Sunrise Campaign learning, sustainability and transition workshop 

Over the past few days, I had the privilege of attending the Sunrise Campaign Reflection, Learning, Sustainability and Transition Workshop. The workshop brought together Gender Focal Persons and Local Economic Development (LED) officials.

One of the biggest lessons I took away from the workshop is that economic empowerment is much more than providing trainings or financial support it is about restoring confidence, dignity and independence. Hearing how many women have started businesses, become financially independent was truly inspiring. Even more moving were the stories of gender-based violence (GBV) survivors who were able to leave abusive relationships because they had gained financial independence through the programme. These stories reminded me that economic empowerment has the power to transform lives far beyond income generation.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of partnerships. The collaboration between municipalities, Gender Links, and other stakeholders has been instrumental in ensuring the success of the Sunrise Campaign. It reinforced my belief that meaningful community development cannot happen in isolation.

One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of participant profiling before programme implementation. Selecting beneficiaries who already have businesses or viable business ideas can significantly improve impact. I also learnt that empowerment is an ongoing journey, and entrepreneurs need consistent guidance, coaching and encouragement as they grow their businesses.

One of the highlights for me was the marketplace exhibition, where municipalities showcased the achievements of their Sunrise Campaign beneficiaries. Walking around the displays and learning from each municipality's unique experiences reminded me that innovation happens in many different forms. 

I left the workshop with renewed motivation and a deeper understanding of what sustainable empowerment truly means. I learnt that lasting impact comes from combining mentorship, financial literacy, strong partnerships and continuous support. Most importantly, I was reminded that behind every statistic is a woman whose life has been transformed through opportunity, resilience and hope.

This workshop reaffirmed that empowering women is not simply about supporting businesses it is about building confidence, restoring dignity and creating pathways to lasting economic independence. That is a lesson I will carry forward in my own work.

(Written by Siphelele Kunene, a RWVLSA intern)